Project OSCAR

What is OSCAR? Online System for Central Accounting and Reporting - a cross government project to replace the COINS public spending database with a robust, user-friendly system that will provide the Treasury with key management information and data for public reporting.

What will Project OSCAR do? Develop a reliable and efficient management information system holding consistent, accurate and timely public spending data that enables the Treasury to perform its key functions, while minimising reporting burdens on departments. This means:

- replacing the existing COINS database;
- improving the quality of data the system holds by simplifying data structures, developing validation and strengthening control processes and accountabilities;
- reducing alternative and ad hoc information and analysis systems the spending side of the Treasury establishes and maintains, which the new system can better provide;
- developing and documenting more efficient and effective processes to reduce reporting burdens and deliver better quality information; and
- ensuring roles, responsibilities and accountabilities are clearly defined and embedded.

What information will the system hold? The data COINS already holds ie public sector budgets, outturns and forecasts. We are also increasing the granularity of data in certain areas, for example in relation to staff costs and purchase of goods and services.

Why does the current system, COINS, need replacing? COINS was introduced in 2005. It is coming to the end of its expected life, demands on it are likely to increase, maintenance costs and the level of manual reconciliation are increasing.

Who is the new system supplier? IBM will provide the new system, using Cognos software.

What are the contractual terms? The contract has been published on the government central contract finder at: http://www.contractsfinder.businesslink.gov.uk/Common/View%20Notice.aspx?site=1000&lang=en&NoticId=254713